One of my earliest childhood memories is sitting out the window of the Puffing Billy Railway.  Legs dangling over the bridges and along the track, the cars tooting and people waving; but mostly being terrified that I would loose my shoes. The memories of this train and its association with the hills area is widely felt, as the most well known tourist attraction in the Dandenong Ranges and an icon famous across Australia and the world.

The railway has been running since December 1900 to open up the magnificent Dandenong Ranges to visitors and commerce. If you board the train from the starting point in Belgrave it travels over the historic Monbulk Creek Tressle Bridge. I remember vividly being terrified as a child at this point that not only would I loose my shoes but I would fall out the window far down onto the valley below. It was both terrifying and exhilarating fun.  The train continues on to Menzies Creek, Emerald and the beautiful Emerald Lake Park.  From there you can continue through Cockatoo and finally onto Gembrook.

One of the most unique weddings I have ever attended took place in Emerald Lake Park.  After the ceremony the wedding party returned to Belgrave for the reception on a private charter ride. It was a spectacular moment as the train pulled out of the station with the happy Bride and Groom. Such a romantic and special choice for a wedding.

I always thought that there was just one Puffing Billy Train, but in peak tourist times they use up to six different Steam Locomotives and a variety of carriages. The railway also offers day and evening events, food and entertainment in a variety of styles from Murder Mystery Nights to Jazz and Blues events.

This is a interesting way to tour the Dandenongs and the historic feel of the trains and the scenery on the trip are second to none in terms of unusual and one off experience. However this all comes at a price. The Railway is expensive to maintain and as such tickets can be pricey,  depending on your perspective and your budget, but it is certainly worth the money for an amazing day out with memories for you and your friends and family that will last a lifetime.

http://puffingbilly.com.au/en/